New year resolutions: one of the yearly rituals that I have a love-hate relationship with.

But there is a certain necessity that demands this ritual. It is not really so much the resolutions themselves that is important but rather what it represents about the year before and the desire that I want to achieve it.

1. Getting rid of things that don't bring me joy: Consumerism is often feeling the emptiness in our hearts but ironically, bringing us less joy for each new thing we buy. Especially for crafters, we have all these wonderful things that is suppose to inspire us. Instead, too much supplies bring us guilt when the paints harden, the ink pads dry up and the washi tape don't stick well anymore. So this year, I want to look through the things which are just there collecting dust and giving them new homes and focus on using a small limited set of supplies which are often more than enough to get the job done.

2. Save more money:Because we can always save just a little more for future rainy days. And as above, I really don't have to spend so much, right?

3. Be a better brother and son:There is always a little guilt each year when I reflect back on my relationships and realized I have gotten mad when I should not have or gotten impatient with my loved ones for very small things. May I strive to be better this year.

4. Lead. Don't Wallow:In the past year, in my relationships and at work, I find myself sometimes paralyzed and then my lack of decision causes things to go south. I end up feeling even more depressed and anxious and everything spirals into a toxic cycle where I feel even more paralyzed. It is time to become brave and break this cycle.

5. Increase flexibility and functional fitness:Last year, a few injuries on my back muscles caused excruciating pain at my hips, lower back and spine, and put me out of being physically active for a good part of the year. All because I have not have focus on the correct posture, have not been focusing on my form and flexibility. These are things that I often take for granted when I was young. Here's to a healthier physical body.

6. Get things done:Procrastination, and consequently pulling magic out of a hat at the very last minute, only work so often. Getting things done can also help encourage me and give me a sense of accomplishment. If being joyful and happy starts with the mundane, I should be focusing on all the little victories I can get.

7. Read 6 books:If one doesn't read new perspectives and learn new things, one can really regress in self-reflexivity and stop growing mentally and emotionally . Especially in in becoming busier and busier each day, it is important to equip myself with knowledge, both in breadth and depth.

Here's to a happy 2018 everyone! What are your resolutions for 2018 and the reflection for the year of 2017?